Hainan updates rules for uninhabited islands

Hainan, China's southern island province, updated a regulation on the development of small uninhabited islands on Wednesday, aiming to better protect the islands and standardize approval procedures.

Issued by provincial ocean and fishery authorities, the updated regulation requires any entity or individual wanting to develop uninhabited islands to first submit an application, development plans and project appraisal reports to the ocean authorities for review and approval.

The regulation sets a limit of 15 years for aquaculture uses, 25 years for tourism and entertainment, 30 years for salt and mining industries, 40 years for public welfare purposes and 50 years for ports, shipyards and other construction projects.